Council OKs new panhandling rules, bans unauthorized homeless camps

Workers erect a fence around an underpass where a homeless camp previously existed near Wheeler Avenue and Fannin Street.

Workers erect a fence around an underpass where a homeless camp previously existed near Wheeler Avenue and Fannin Street.

Photo: Jon Shapley, Staff

Photo: Jon Shapley, Staff

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Workers erect a fence around an underpass where a homeless camp previously existed near Wheeler Avenue and Fannin Street.

Workers erect a fence around an underpass where a homeless camp previously existed near Wheeler Avenue and Fannin Street.

Photo: Jon Shapley, Staff

Council OKs new panhandling rules, bans unauthorized homeless camps

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Residents who impede the use of a Houston roadway, or block a sidewalk or building entrance could be charged with a misdemeanor under an ordinance passed Wednesday by City Council.

The ordinance aimed at curbing panhandling was paired with a ban on unauthorized encampments in public places – an effort to crack down on homeless camps that have drawn resident and council member ire in recent months. The encampment ban is set to take effect in 30 days.

Mayor Sylvester Turner said he thinks the new rules strike a "delicate balance" between regulation and helping the homeless.

"We want to assist people in getting to a better spot in their lives," Turner said.